Conventional Method of Composting

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Conventional Method of Composting

Overview

Compost is a humus-rich product that adds essential nutrients to the soil and is a natural alternative to chemical fertilizers for growing strong, healthy plants. The conventional method of making compost is relatively simple to do at home and allows you to recycle kitchen scraps and yard debris. Making your own compost also reduces the amount of household waste that goes directly into the garbage can, making the practice environmentally friendly.

Step 1

Select an area for the compost pile that is flat, bare and free of weeds and grass. An area behind a gardening shed works well so the pile is out of the way.

Step 2

Lay down a 3- to 4-inch thick-layer of straw over the area for the bottom of the compost pile, or use a layer of twigs in place of the straw. This allows for good air circulation and drainage of the compost pile, which helps in the breakdown process of the compost material.

Step 4

Add manure as the top layer of the compost pile. Manure has lots of nitrogen, which activates the compost pile and speeds the decomposition of the materials.

Step 5

Water the pile well after the final addition of the manure until the pile is wet. Water the compost pile one to two times weekly so it stays moist. The pile should be wet, without the water pooling excessively.

Step 6

Cover the pile with a piece of plastic sheeting and secure by placing heavy rocks on each corner. By covering the compost pile, moisture and heat are retained, which causes the composting process that breaks down the materials. The covering also protects against excess water from rain or automatic sprinklers.

Step 7

Turn the compost pile every two to three weeks using a shovel or pitchfork. To turn, remove the covering and pick up the material with a shovel or pitchfork and flip it over. Try not to move the bottom layer of stray or twigs. Turning the compost every few weeks aerates the material and adds needed oxygen to continue the breakdown process.

Tips and Warnings

Do not use banana peels, orange rinds or peach peels; they may have pesticide residue that can contaminate the compost.
Do not add meat, bones, fish scraps, pet manure or diseased plants to the compost pile.

Things You'll Need

Straw

Composting materials

Manure

Garden hose

Plastic sheeting

Shovel

References

About this Author

Residing in Southern Oregon, Amy Madtson has been writing for Demand Studios since 2008 with a focus on health, pregnancy, crafts and gardening. Her work has been published on websites such as eHow and Garden Guides, among others. Madtson has been a childbirth educator and doula since 1993.